My Placement at Buttercrumble (again!): Charlie
An open-arms welcome back!
After first working with Buttercrumble in 2022, returning this February for a four-month placement felt like a full-circle moment. I must admit, the lure of sweet treats may or may not have swayed me..! This time, I’ve had the chance to really embed myself into the rhythm of a working design studio, collaborating not only with Chloe and Abigail again, but also with Alex, their Academic Community Manager, and of course, Barnaby, the fluffiest of studio mascots!
The Crumble Crew illustration, Charlie Reader
What a difference four months make
Working in an independent, collaborative agency has allowed me to contribute to various projects. One of the most enjoyable aspects has been the variety of work. From creating illustrated animal decals and social graphics for Cub Nurseries to leading the Design Dissected series on Buttercrumble’s Instagram – a weekly feature breaking down recent rebrands through a critical and creative lens – I’ve had the opportunity to combine visual design with writing and research. I was also trusted to lead the brand identity for Prepped by Emily, a start-up beauty business centred around luxury and a timeless aesthetic. Designing this from scratch, from logo to colour palette, was a real highlight and pushed me to consider how strategy, tone, and elegance all mix together in our recipe for success.
The opportunities and the learning curves
With a quick-paced environment comes quick thinking. Turnarounds can be tight, but I’ve found that’s where the real learning kicks in! Weekly check-ins with Abigail have been especially valuable. They gave me a space to track my progress, raise any challenges, and reflect on the projects I’ve enjoyed the most. This structure helped me build not just confidence in my work, but also a better understanding of how I work best.
Speaking of confidence, one of my most rewarding opportunities has been exploring illustration. Projects such as illustrating concept hoarding sketches for Moseley Road Baths and creating social graphics for Buttercrumble’s Trade Mission campaign have helped me refine my personal style. I am very grateful to Chloe and Abigail for allocating me the time to hone in on these skills that I can now take forward throughout my design work: pencils and sketchbooks, watch out!
“Working somewhere where collaboration is second nature and creativity is nurtured daily has made this experience feel incredibly special”.
— Charlie Reader
Part of the furniture!
Over the months, I’ve felt more and more like an integral part of the Buttercrumble team. Alongside client work, I’ve also contributed to studio-facing projects like the seasonal Bowcliffe Hall illustration for their social posts. Being included in events, internal reviews, and creative discussions has helped me feel like a true Crumble Contributor rather than just an observer.
Experience that’s personal
Before this, I spent six months at a London-based branding agency. That experience gave me insight into a more corporate studio setting. But working with Buttercrumble has felt different: Chloe and Abigail, both alumni of my course at Leeds, have created a studio culture rooted in care and creativity, and that’s been clear in everything I’ve experienced here.
Part of that has included supporting Buttercrumble-led events. I had the opportunity to assist at the Creative UK Big Summit in Bradford, where Chloe and Abigail featured as guest speakers. The event gave me a broader perspective on how design sits within the creative industries and how Buttercrumble’s work resonates beyond the studio. I also helped with their 1st Anniversary event in Leeds, celebrating the publication of The Brand Power Manifesto. Seeing the book’s impact and how the studio’s values are reflected in their community of supporters was both inspiring and affirming.
Buttercrumble and I
This placement has helped me grow, not just as a designer, but as a teammate, communicator, and creative thinker. I’m so thankful to Chloe and Abigail for having me back and trusting me with real responsibility. Working somewhere where collaboration is second nature and creativity is nurtured daily has made this experience feel incredibly special. It’s something I’ll take with me onto whatever journey lies ahead!
By Charlie Reader, Graphic Design Placement
